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Hypertension in the elderly
1Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis.
Hospital Practice (Office Ed.)
|May 15, 1992
Insights
More than half of older adults have high blood pressure, increasing their risk for serious health issues. Lowering diastolic pressure too much may paradoxically raise mortality risk by impairing blood flow.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Over 50% of US adults aged 65+ exhibit elevated systolic pressure.
- This demographic faces significant risks for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence of hypertension in older adults.
- To discuss the potential risks associated with lowering diastolic pressure in this population.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of epidemiological data on hypertension prevalence in older adults.
- Review of existing literature on the effects of antihypertensive therapy on mortality.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of elevated systolic pressure (with or without elevated diastolic pressure) in individuals 65 years and older.
- Potential for increased mortality when diastolic pressure is lowered excessively, compromising perfusion.
Conclusions:
- Hypertension is highly prevalent in the elderly population.
- Therapeutic strategies must carefully consider the risks of over-lowering diastolic blood pressure to avoid adverse outcomes.
Abstract:
More than 50% of the U.S. population 65 years and older have elevated systolic pressure with or without elevated diastolic pressure--and thus in either case are at risk for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular sequelae. As therapy lowers diastolic pressure, however, mortality can increase, presumably when blood pressure is brought down to levels that compromise perfusion.